Tag: Quit smoking

Decades ago, nicotine patch labels came with strict warnings advising against any smoking while using the product due to fears of heart attacks or strokes. However, modern medical research has debunked this specific myth and offers a more nuanced understanding of whether you can still smoke while on the patch.

Using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can nearly double your chances of quitting smoking for good. However, many users wonder exactly how fast do nicotine patches kick in, given their gradual, steady delivery method compared to the instant rush of a cigarette.

In the United States, there are more former smokers than current smokers. For those looking to quit, one available option is a prescription medication sometimes known as 'the purple pill.' So, what is the purple pill for smoking?

Varenicline is considered the most effective single-medicine therapy for smoking cessation [1.2.3]. So, can you still smoke while taking varenicline? Most treatment plans involve smoking for at least the first week to allow the medicine to build up in your body [1.3.3].

According to the FDA, clinical trials show that Chantix (varenicline) increases the likelihood of abstinence from smoking for up to one year compared to a placebo. This prescription medication is a powerful aid used primarily to help adults quit smoking, addressing both the physical cravings and the rewarding sensations of nicotine.

For most people, it takes at least one week for the noticeable benefits of varenicline to begin, which is why a quit date is typically set seven days after starting the medication. Understanding this timeline is crucial for managing expectations and preparing for a successful smoking cessation journey.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, using medication like varenicline significantly increases the chances of a successful quit attempt compared to going 'cold turkey'. Learning how to properly take varenicline is a critical step to ensure its effectiveness and manage potential side effects.

Research from the Cochrane Collaboration shows that using **What does NRT stand for** can increase a person's chances of successfully quitting smoking by 50% to 60%. NRT, or Nicotine Replacement Therapy, works by delivering controlled doses of nicotine to reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms that often make quitting a major challenge.

With smoking claiming nearly half a million lives annually in the U.S., the need for new cessation tools is critical. A promising new treatment is emerging on the horizon: Cytisinicline, a novel agent seeking regulatory approval to become the first new antismoking drug in nearly two decades. This article explores this medication's function, effectiveness, and journey toward availability.

According to a study published in the *New England Journal of Medicine*, Zyban (bupropion) was found to be twice as effective as the nicotine patch for helping people quit smoking, with both combined proving even more successful. **What is Zyban?** It is a non-nicotine, prescription medication formulated to help people overcome nicotine addiction.